Sunderland have confirmed that Manchester City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon will join on a Bosman free transfer at the start of next month

Sunderland have confirmed Costel Pantilimon will join the club next month.

The Romania international goalkeeper has signed a four-year contract with the Black Cats that takes effect on July 1, when his current deal at Manchester City expires.

The 27-year-old is the third player to agree a Bosman move to Wearside, following West Brom’s Billy Jones and Wigan Athletic midfielder Jordi Gomez to the Stadium of Light.

Pantilimon said: “It is a great privilege and honour to join a club like Sunderland.

“They have an amazing history and tradition and of course passionate fans.

“When I left Manchester City it was important that I chose a club with good ambition and a manager who has the hunger and desire to take the team forward.

“After speaking with the boss [Gus Poyet], I knew this was the right place and he was the right man. I can’t wait to start.”

Pantilimon will challenge Vito Mannone for the number one shirt at Sunderland, while youngster Jordan Pickford recently signed a new contract as backup.

Sunderland’s sporting director Lee Congerton said: “Competition for places is healthy and brings out the best in players. We already have a great goalkeeper in Vito Mannone and another one now in Costel.

“Add to this youngster Jordan Pickford, who recently signed a long-term deal and we have a very strong stable of goalkeepers, which is vitally important in the top flight.”

At 6ft 8in, Pantilimon is the tallest player in the Premier League.

He has spent three seasons at Man City as understudy to England’s number one Joe Hart, making seven Premier League appearances.

Pantilimon has played more games in the cup competitions, including in the final of the Capital One Cup last season when he helped City beat Sunderland at Wembley.

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